RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Molecular and Functional Imaging in Monogenic PD.

This research is looking for an early sign, called a biomarker, for Parkinson's disease. They're using three types of brain scans: PET, SPECT, and MRI. By looking at these scans, scientists hope to learn more about how Parkinson's affects the brain, particularly in those with a family history. This knowledge could be really helpful for creating new treatments that might slow down the everyday symptoms of Parkinson's. The study involves four visits over three months, including scans and some blood tests, with one optional procedure.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University of Exeter

Enrolment target

Start

01 Jul 2022

Estimated completion

30 Jun 2026

Parkinson Disease Nervous System Disorder Neurodegenerative Diseases Neurodegenerative Disease, Hereditary Parkinson's

What is this study about?

This study is trying to find a special sign, called a 'biomarker', for Parkinson's disease. A biomarker is like an early warning sign or a way to track how a disease is changing. Having a biomarker for Parkinson's could be a big step forward because at the moment, we don't have one.

Parkinson's is a condition that affects the brain and causes problems with movement, like slowness, stiffness, and shaking. These problems happen because certain brain cells stop working properly and die. While we don't usually know why Parkinson's starts, sometimes it runs in families due to specific genes. This study is focusing on these inherited forms of Parkinson's because learning about them might give us important clues about what causes the disease in everyone and help us find better treatments.

The main aim of this research is to truly understand the changes that happen in the brain when someone has Parkinson's. By finding a biomarker and gathering this information, the researchers hope to speed up the discovery and development of new medications. These new medicines would aim to help control and hopefully delay the worsening of Parkinson's symptoms.

Key takeaways

Researchers are looking for an early sign (biomarker) of Parkinson's.
The study uses special brain scans (PET, SPECT, MRI) to understand the disease.
It focuses on inherited forms of Parkinson's for important clues.
Findings could help develop new medicines to slow down symptoms.
Participation involves 4 visits over 3 months, including scans and blood tests.
You must meet specific health and age requirements.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for both men and women between the ages of 25 and 80. To take part, you need to be able to fully understand what the study involves and agree to its terms.

You also need to be able to come to the research centre for all the planned visits, follow the study instructions, and have any necessary tests. If you're a woman, you can't be pregnant or breastfeeding. You'll also need to be using very effective birth control during the study.

If you're a man who is sexually active, you'll need to agree to use condoms and ensure your partner is also using birth control to prevent pregnancy during the study and for three months after the special scans.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 25 and 80 years old?
Can you travel to the research centre for all visits?
Are you able to follow study instructions and have all tests?
If you are a woman, are you not pregnant or breastfeeding, and using effective birth control?
If you are a sexually active man, are you willing to use condoms and ensure your partner uses birth control during and for 3 months after the study?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll have four visits to the research centre over a three-month period. Each visit will last about six hours. Your first visit will involve discussing the study, giving your consent, and having some blood samples taken.

During your second visit, you'll have two types of brain scans: a PET scan (which uses a safe, temporary tracer) and an MRI scan. The third visit will involve another type of scan called a SPECT scan. There's also an optional fourth visit, which would be for a lumbar puncture (also known as a spinal tap).

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study may not directly improve your health, but the information gained could greatly help future patients with Parkinson's by improving our understanding of the disease and leading to new treatments. All procedures carry some small risks, such as discomfort from blood draws or the lumbar puncture, and exposure to small amounts of radiation from the PET and SPECT scans, which your doctor can explain further. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

University Of Exeter
Verified postcode
Exeter, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is a 'biomarker'?

A biomarker is like a measurable sign in your body that can tell us if a disease is present, how severe it is, or if it's getting worse.

Will taking part in this study treat my Parkinson's?

This study is for research and won't directly treat your Parkinson's. However, the information learned could help develop new treatments for others in the future.

What are PET, SPECT, and MRI scans?

These are different types of special pictures taken of your brain to help doctors see what's happening inside. They are common medical imaging techniques.

What is a 'lumbar puncture'?

A lumbar puncture, or spinal tap, is a procedure where a small amount of fluid is taken from your lower back for testing. It's optional in this study.

How long will I be involved in the study?

You will have four study visits over a total period of three months, with each visit lasting about six hours.

How to find out more

Marios Politis, Professor

m.politis@exeter.ac.uk 07503 741242 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.